69 killed as strong earthquake hits central Philippines

At least 69 people have been killed and over 150 injured after a strong earthquake struck off the central Philippine island of Cebu late Tuesday, toppling buildings, cutting power, and sending terrified residents rushing into the streets.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the magnitude 6.9 quake hit at 9:59 pm local time (13:59 GMT) near the northern tip of Cebu Island, close to Bogo City, which has a population of about 90,000.

The initial tremor was followed by at least four aftershocks above magnitude 5, intensifying fears in the region.

By early Wednesday, the Philippines’ National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council confirmed 26 fatalities and 147 injuries, while noting that 22 buildings were damaged.

Local officials declared a “state of calamity” in parts of Cebu to speed up rescue and relief operations.

The earthquake caused widespread damage, including the collapse of a more than 100-year-old church. Local television footage showed a Cebu bridge swaying violently, forcing motorcycle riders to stop and cling to railings.

Power outages hit several towns, leaving residents in darkness amid heavy rains. The provincial government appealed on social media for medical volunteers to assist overwhelmed hospitals.

“We are still assessing the damage, but it could be worse than we think,” Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro said in a video message, adding she had requested aid from the president’s office.

San Remigio, one of the hardest-hit towns, reported seven deaths, including personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection and three coastguard officers. Police said the victims were killed when a sports complex collapsed during a basketball game.

In Bogo City, at least 13 people, including four minors, were confirmed dead, while the towns of Medellin and Tabuelan each reported two fatalities.

San Remigio’s vice mayor, Alfie Reynes, urgently appealed for food, water, and heavy equipment to assist rescue teams.

“It is raining heavily and there is no electricity, so we really need help, especially in the northern part, because there’s a scarcity of water after supply lines were damaged by the earthquake,” Reynes told local radio.